What are the Best Sources of Home Care Help?

The best sources of home care help depend upon the requirements of the individual. If the person requires financial assistance with home care, it's best to check with his insurance company's policy. If the individual is basically housebound or has limited mobility and needs assistance with household chores, enlisting a caregiver who is licensed would be an option. For individuals who require personal assistance in daily tasks such as bathing and getting dressed, contacting a licensed home health care service would be a good place to start. Occupational therapists are other sources of home care assistance.

When seeking any type of home care help, there are several things to consider and inquire about. It's important to determine if the agency under consideration screens its employees for criminal backgrounds. The caregiver in question should also be fully insured and bonded. Whether the caregiver's services are covered by worker's compensation is another factor to consider.

Along with researching staffing agencies, people who need home care assistance should also consider a private home care aid. These workers should meet the same criteria as agency employees and generally must be paid at least minimum wage. The individual who is hiring should also check his homeowner's insurance policy to protect himself and his property.

Another good source for home care help can be a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN). These nurses can provide care for patients who are recovering from surgery or injury, as well as various medical conditions and diseases. Some medical insurance plans may provide financial aid, but it is best to check with the insurance company for details.

For patients who need home care help and assistance in recovering from injuries, hiring a physical therapist may be another consideration. In many cases, a physical therapist may work with a caregiver. A patient's physician may be able to recommend a physical therapist for home care help.

Patients who require speech therapy may enlist the assistance of a speech or language pathologist. This type of home care help may be beneficial for patients recovering from brain surgery or a stroke. The patient's physician may be able to provide referrals for language pathologists who practice in-home health care.

In some cases, a patient may seek home care help for a special-needs diet. A licensed dietitian may be a good choice for this job. This nutritionist can offer advice and suggestions to an individual who has specific nutritional requirements.